James McClean, former Republic of Ireland midfielder, believes Derry City has an "issue somewhere" impacting their European performance, refuting claims of a lack of effort from players. McClean, who rejoined his hometown club from Wrexham in January, expressed his dissatisfaction with the team's season, which has fallen short of expectations after finishing second in the League of Ireland last year.

Derry City, currently in sixth place, recently exited the Uefa Conference League after a second-round defeat to Rijeka and previously lost to CSKA Sofia in the Europa League qualifiers. Manager Tiernan Lynch urged his players to be "a little bit braver." However, McClean, who was not in the squad for the recent match, stated on Instagram that the players' effort is not the problem.

"If you watch the games, the lads aren't losing these games based on lack of effort. So clearly there is an issue somewhere," McClean posted. He asserted his right to voice his opinion due to his experience, stating, "Given [I] am around it every day and have the CV to give my opinion, I think I'll give it whether anyone likes it or not."